I thought you might. Give a place a chance before you write it off, and you might find a hidden gem or two.

[Claude smiles at him before leading the way inside. The teahouse itself isn't overly busy, with just a few patrons. Colourful but softly lit lamps light the interior, and the seating around painted lacquer tables is covered with bright cushions and throws, with mosaics, artwork and even intricate stone carvings covering the walls, in an eclectic mix of styles from various worlds.

It's the exact kind of hideaway Claude might smuggle himself away to for hours on end with a good book -- and it seems he's gotten in the habit of doing just that, because he greets one of the staff who recognises him as he enters. He takes a table for them both with a view looking out on the courtyard, but still tucked away in a corner for some privacy, and sits down with a relieved sigh. He's trying to be good company, but he can't totally disguise the excursion taking a toll.]

Oh -- yeah, they do food here too, if you're hungry. Just cakes and snacks and stuff, but it's still good.